Gerald “Jerry” Franklin Bays of Casper, Wyoming, passed away surrounded by his family on April 20, 2026 at the age of 84. Jerry was born on July 3, 1941 in Casper, Wyoming to Jethro Cody Bays and Onalee Elma (Anderson) Bays.

Jerry grew up in Midwest, Wyoming, where he and his siblings—Jim, Johnny, and Judy—kept their parents running with their goodhearted mischief. Jerry graduated from Midwest High School in 1959, going on to attend Chadron State College before transferring to the University of Wyoming. After graduating from UW, he received his Master of Science degree from the University of Utah in 1967. Jerry was educated and trained in the field of science during a time of great discovery and was proud of his contributions to the field.

Jerry began his teaching career at Natrona County School District, where he was among the original staff at CY Junior High. He taught Biology, Earth Science, and Astronomy at Natrona County High School, East Junior High, and Centennial Junior High before retiring after 32 years of service. Along with teaching, he was Director of the NCSD Summer Program and Casper Planetarium. Jerry’s impact as a curious, fun-loving, patient teacher was affirmed over and over again when former students came up to thank him long after he’d left the classrooms. Jerry further gave back to the community as a Shriner and member of the Masonic Lodge, serving as Lodge Master of Natrona Lodge #51 from 1977-78.

Throughout his studies and career, Linda Lookingbill was by Jerry’s side. From the moment they met at the local Soda Shop in Midwest at the age of 15, Jerry knew Linda would be his heart’s greatest love. They married in 1960, and at the completion of his schooling, moved to Casper to grow their life and family over the next 63 years.

Jerry was a devoted family man with a wonderful sense of humor, a kind heart, and a willingness to help anyone in need. He loved all things outdoors—hunting, fishing, camping—and had a special appreciation for plants and birds. Ever the gentleman, he offered his chair to anyone who walked in the room, even if there were plenty of other spots to sit. He enjoyed playing sports and watching his grandkids play. He always had a shirt pocket full of mints for anyone and everyone. He liked old westerns, Hershey’s chocolate bars, and travel (so long as it wasn’t on an airplane). He loved listening to music and dancing with his Linda. He laughed hard at a good story and moved through life with a great sense of optimism. Jerry was endlessly proud of his family, and they were so very proud of him in return.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife Linda, his parents Cody and Onalee, his sister Judy, and numerous aunts and uncles.

Jerry is survived by his brothers, James “Jim” Bays (Karen) and John Bays (Peggy); children, Jodi Woodell (Tony), Julie Pollard (Russ), Jerel Bays (Jennifer), and Jerrod Bays (Jessica); 9 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren (soon to be 8).

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at Bustard & Jacoby Funeral Home on Friday, May 1 at 1:00pm, with reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital. To give by mail: Shriners Children's Attn: Office of Philanthropy 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive Tampa, FL 33607 To give online: https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/ways-to-give/giving-to-shriners-childrens/honor-a-loved-one